‘Teacher of the Month’ takes on big challenges with a smile

ASH, NC (WWAY) — In a classroom where every day presents unique challenges, one teacher is being recognized for her unwavering dedication to her students. Erin Wilson, a special education pre-kindergarten teacher at Jessie Mae Monroe Elementary, was named WWAY’s Teacher of the Month for October.

Wilson was surprised during a special dress-up day at the school where students dressed like teachers and teachers dressed like students. Despite some challenges, she works to make every day special for her students.

“I teach EC Pre-K, so I teach little ones with developmental disabilities, with autism, hearing impaired, so a variety of disabilities,” Wilson explained.

Principal Terressa Gause praised Wilson for her ability to handle difficult situations in the classroom with grace.

“Ms. Wilson has some challenges within her classroom – biting, maybe hitting – but she takes them all in stride,” Gause said.

Wilson’s inspiration to enter the teaching profession came later in life, driven by her own experience as a mother of a child with autism.

“She did not have early childhood special education, because she was not diagnosed as having a disability until she was 8, so she missed that window,” Wilson said. “Plus it was many years ago, she’s 31 today, and so special education has come a long way since then.”

Jessie Mae Monroe Elementary School EC Pre-K Teacher Erin Wilson is named Teacher of the Month.
(Photo: Anastasia Vandeberg/WWAY)

In a touching twist, it was Wilson’s daughter who secretly nominated her for Teacher of the Month.

“She did! I didn’t know this. She didn’t tell me this. And that’s pretty good that she kept that a secret,” Wilson said with a smile.

In addition to the recognition, Wilson was presented with a $400 prize, sponsored by Fulford Heating and Cooling and Beach Bagels and Subs.

You can nominate a deserving teacher here.